Turtle Island Resort Raises Over $60,000 (US) in Less Than ONE Day for Cyclone Winston Victims

Yasawa Islands, Fiji, February 29, 2016 (Newswire.com) - Tropical Cyclone Winston ravaged the Fijian Islands on February 20, causing wide-spread devastation to many parts of the tiny island nation. The Cyclone produced winds of 185 mph – making Cyclone Winston the second strongest storm to make landfall ever recorded. The damage it left in its wake has created an urgent need for basic supplies.

Turtle Island, one of Fiji’s premier resort islands, escaped major damage and was thankfully able to quickly access nearby villages and islands to assess the damage.  Turtle Island employs over 100 Fijians who are the heart of Turtle Island. Their families and friends all live in these villages. There are seven villages and one settlement in the Tikina (community) — all have been affected by the cyclone. While thankfully there were no injuries to residents, many villages have suffered a total loss of food crops and severe housing damage. Many communities are running critically low on food, water and essential supplies.

"Turtle Island is overwhelmed and extremely grateful at the outpouring of generosity and love from people who have donated and sent their well wishes," said Richard Evanson, Jr., Managing Director of Turtle Island. "The funds provided will go a long way to make a big difference to those affected by the cyclone."

Richard Evanson, Jr., Managing Director, Turtle Island Resort

In swift response to the situation and in determination to assist neighboring villages, the resort quickly created a GoFundMe account to provide immediate relief to the 7 villages, one settlement and also an additional 4 villages that are nearby the Tikina.  The resort also pledged to donate  FJD $20,000 in immediate funds for the effort. The hope was to raise FDJ$80,000 (USD$38,000) in 36 hours.

This goal was shattered in less than 7 hours and to-date friends of Turtle Island have donated in excess of USD$70,000.  The many donations received came in from past guests, future guests, return guests and just friends on Facebook who have never even been to the island. 

"Turtle Island is overwhelmed and extremely grateful at the outpouring of generosity and love from people who have donated and sent their well wishes," said Richard Evanson, Jr., Managing Director of Turtle Island.  "The funds provided will go a long way to make a big difference to those affected by the cyclone."

This wonderful gesture will be put to good use as the resort has already ordered supplies to provide eight villages a 30-day supply of food, basic necessities and rebuilding materials to help them get back on their feet. 

More information on the relief efforts can be found at  http://www.turtlefiji.com/fiji-cyclone-appeal.

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Located at one of the most stunning places on earth, Turtle Island in Fiji is the ultimate all-inclusive private island paradise. Turtle Island offers 14 private beaches, gourmet dining, a brand new spa, personal "bure mamas," top-shelf liquors, wines, and champagnes, world-class activities such as fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and only 14 couples at a time. For more information go to www.turtlefiji.com or call 800-255-4347.

Jennifer Forte Cuomo
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